Lebanon has so much to offer and as the country is relatively small, you can do a lot in a short amount of time. Its great!
The best way to get around is with a car, but driving can be dangerous as the roads are not lit at night, and in some areas, are not well maintained. As such, we recommend exploring with a chauffer or in guided group tour as they usually include transportation. For guided tours Viator has a lot of good options that include several locations in 1 trip.
This series of underground caves is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lebanon and is located just outside of Beirut. The grotto features stunning stalactites and stalagmites and is considered one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world.
Byblos (Jbeil) is believed to have been first occupied between 8800 and 7000 BC and continuously inhabited since 5000 BC, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Our Tip: This is a fantastic area, don't miss it!
This ancient city is home to the Temple of Jupiter, one of the largest Roman temple ruins in the world. It was inscribed in 1984 as an UNESCO World Heritage site.
Our Tip: Travel as a group or if possible, with Lebanese people.
This small hilltop town is home to the Our Lady of Lebanon statue, which stands on top of a hill overlooking the city. The statue is considered one of the most important religious sites in the country and offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
Our Tip: If you feel physically able to, take the hike up or down instead of the Teleferique to enjoy more of the views and landscape.
This coastal town is known for its historic harbor, ancient ruins, and its vibrant beach scene. Visitors can explore the Roman theater, visit the Phoenician Wall, and relax on one of the town's many beaches.
Our Tip: The nightlife and restaurants in Batroun are fantastic!
Château Ksara is Lebanon’s oldest and largest winery.
Our Tip: Ksara has the nicest cave tour with the richest history.
Kefraya is considered historic land that had grape vines growing there more than 4000 years ago.
Our tip: Kefraya has the most unique wines and often creates a limited quantity of highly specialized wines with unique labels. These specialized wines can only be purchased at the winery in Lebanon, they are not sold abroad.
IXSIR’s vineyards are at an altitude of 1,800 metres, making them the highest in the Northern Hemisphere.
Our Tip: IXSIR has the nicest Chateau, don't miss the spiral staircase!
For those looking to hike, Lebanon has absolutely beautiful scenery and more trails than you can imagine!
That said, they are often not commercialized and its best to either go with a guide or group. Consider joining a hiking group such as Lebanon_In_Nature (check them out on Instagram for more details).
The most beautiful cedar reserve in the world. This is an easy hike as it is more commercialized and there is a clear entrance and exit. It does not require a guided tour and is one of our favorite spots in Lebanon. The path takes you to a higher altitude without you realizing until suddenly you feel how fresh the air is, high up and amongst these beautiful trees.
Our Tip: Bsharri is in the north where it is much colder than Beirut and other parts of the country. Be sure to bring a light jacket, even in June!
A beautiful valley filled with secret spots that will take your breath away. One of the most famous natural landmarks in Lebanon which has a wide variety of hiking trails. You can go on easy, medium, or difficult hikes that range anywhere from 2 hours to 8 hours. There is so much to discover in the valley, amazing natural beauty, and rich history including the Hadchit water springs.
Situated on the upper north western slopes of Mount Lebanon, ranging in altitude from 1200 m to 2000, Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve covers more than 450 hectors and is considered as a very important part of the country for its unique biodiversity. Its a beautiful and safe park to explore.
Our Tip: Although there is good signage, its always good to have a map on hand as the reserve is very large.
Explore the Naher Ibrahim river, and the Yahchouch lake and don’t forget your swimsuit if you would like to have a refreshing dip in the river or under the waterfalls.
Restaurants and Bars
Restaurants
1. Babel
2. Em Sherif
3. Kampai
4. Al Falamanki (Raouche location especially for breakfast)
5. Pastis
6. Pierre & Friends
7. Le Chef
8. Tavolina
9. Tabliyet Massaad (Zahle Hoch location is best but all are good!)
10. Ritage Garden
Delicious food & beautiful historical Lebanese design
1. Beit Kanz
2. Liza Beirut
Rooftop Bars
1. Iris
2. Aria
3. Clap
4. Spine (also good for clubbing)
5. Fabrk
6. Level 26 at the Four Seasons Hotel
7. Cherry on the Rooftop
Clubs (all outdoors)
1. Skybar (mostly English, top 40, mix of genres)
2. Music Hall (mix of shows, arabic and english)
3. Spine (deep house, bazaar nights depending on the day of the week)
4. Raw (mostly English, top 40, mix of genres)
5. White
6. BO18 (iconic bomb shelter after-hours club, deep house, sometimes opens early for regular club)
Beaches
North of Beirut
1. Edde Sands (mix of large pools and sandy beach access)
2. Orchid Beach Club (infinity pool, limited beach access and more rocky)
3. Pierre and Friends (beach access)
4. Anfeh (known for it's Greek colours)
South of Beirut
5. Iris Beach Resort
6. Pangea Beach Resort
Shopping
ABC Mall (multiple locations, but Achrafieh is the nicest)
Beirut Souks (open air, nice area to walk around)